The Importance of Play Based Learning

Often we hear experts talking about the importance of ‘play-based learning’ for our  kids’ development, but what exactly is it? And why is it deemed to be so important?

Play-based learning is a technical way of describing the way kids, especially young kids, explore and make sense of their world. Kids who are encouraged to learn and grow in this way learn to use their brains in different ways to understand and solve problems.  Through play-based learning, children develop an understanding of the social and physical conditions that define their world, and the language and symbols that are used to describe it.

It doesn’t matter whether your child plays on their own, with  another child, or independently alongside another child, they are experiencing an intense period of learning, using all their senses. It’s nearly  impossible for us, who are so used to the sounds, sights, smells and tastes of the world, to imagine what it must be like to be making sense of a world where nearly everything is unknown and untested.

You can encourage play-based learning in your young ones by allowing children extended independent or group play periods, providing appropriate materials and resources from around the house, and encouraging and challenging children in their play.

Kids who have been given plenty of opportunities for play-based learning will have a great start in life. Among other things, it is believed they will develop self confidence, a positive self-image, social and language skills, curiosity, persistence and concentration.  What’s more, as they get older they are more likely to engage in activities, such as sport or youth clubs, which will develop their life skills further.